Best Of The Best

About the Show

About the Show

That’s exactly what happened in May 2003 when one of Australia’s major charities – Mission Australia – held its annual gala fundraising event, ‘Best of the Best’. Hundreds of Australia’s top business and entertainment identities helped raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for the disadvantaged.

And we were there – with Food Source’s Neil Perry, directing proceedings in the kitchen and Home’s Brendan Moar, mingling with the guests.

One of the most glamorous and exciting events on the fundraising calendar, ‘Best of the Best’ was held this year on Sydney’s historic Cockatoo Island, once home to the infamous bushranger Captain Thunderbolt. Inside a purpose-built setting designed by Iain Halliday, interior designer and architect extraordinaire, lavish entertainment was provided by songstress Delta Goodrem, Opera Australia vocalists and a dazzling fashion parade showcasing the designer Richard Tyler’s latest highly-acclaimed collection.

While the guests were being entertained, the heat was on in the kitchen, with Australia’s most prominent chefs joining forces to present an extraordinary culinary event. Tetsuya Wakuda, Neal Jackson, Geoff Lindsay, Russell Armstrong, Christine Manfield, Karen Martini, Peter Doyle… the list of chefs united is like a culinary who’s who.

Each course and chef was a surprise for the guests who were also treated to perfectly matched wines donated by 60 of Australia’s best boutique and major vineyards for the ultimate dining experience.

If you weren’t there yourself, this half-hour special is the next best thing. See what went on at one of Australia’s night of nights.